1

Lean Process Improvement Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Improvement Sciences Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$145K - $161K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead and support process improvement projects utilizing recognized improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma, PDSA/PDCA, and Change Management frameworks. * Conduct comprehensive data ...

Improvement Sciences Specialist

San Diego, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead and support process improvement projects utilizing recognized improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma, PDSA/PDCA, and Change Management frameworks. * Conduct comprehensive data ...

Knowledge of AS9100, ISO 9001, and Lean Process Improvement. * Previous QC/inspection supervisory or leadership experience. * Strong blueprint interpretation, inspection, and mathematical skills.

Improvement Sciences Specialist

San Diego, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead and support process improvement projects utilizing recognized improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma, PDSA/PDCA, and Change Management frameworks. * Conduct comprehensive data ...

Showing results 41-60

Lean Process Improvement information

See California salary details

$48.9K

$112K

How much do lean process improvement jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for lean process improvement in California is $107,422.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,500.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is lean process improvement?

Lean Process Improvement is a methodology focused on streamlining processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency within an organization. It originated from manufacturing, particularly the Toyota Production System, but is now widely used across many industries. By identifying and eliminating non-value-added activities, Lean helps organizations deliver better quality products or services faster and at lower costs. The approach encourages continuous improvement, employee involvement, and data-driven decision-making to optimize all aspects of operations.

What skills and qualifications are needed for lean process improvement?

To thrive as a Lean Process Improvement Specialist, a strong foundation in process analysis, Lean methodologies (such as Six Sigma), and data-driven decision-making is essential, often supported by a degree in engineering, business, or a related field. Familiarity with process mapping tools, statistical analysis software, and Lean Six Sigma certifications are commonly required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to lead cross-functional teams help individuals excel in this role. These skills are crucial for driving operational efficiency, reducing waste, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within organizations.

What are common challenges when implementing lean process improvements in an established organization?

One common challenge is resistance to change, as employees may be accustomed to existing processes and skeptical of new methods. Additionally, it can take time to identify and eliminate waste without disrupting current workflows. Collaboration across departments is crucial, and aligning everyone around shared goals often requires clear communication and ongoing training. Successful Lean initiatives typically rely on support from leadership and a culture that encourages continuous improvement.

What is the difference between Lean Process Improvement vs Continuous Improvement Specialist?

AspectLean Process ImprovementContinuous Improvement Specialist
CertificationsLean, Six Sigma, KaizenLean, Six Sigma, Kaizen
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, Healthcare, ServiceManufacturing, Corporate, Service
Primary FocusReducing waste, streamlining processesEnhancing overall process efficiency and culture
Employer UsageManufacturers, hospitals, logisticsCorporations, consulting firms, industries

While both roles aim to improve processes, Lean Process Improvement focuses on eliminating waste and streamlining workflows using Lean tools. Continuous Improvement Specialists adopt a broader approach, fostering ongoing enhancements across various organizational areas, often integrating Lean principles but with a wider scope.

What jobs focus on lean process improvement?

Jobs that focus on lean process improvement include Lean Process Improvement Specialist, Continuous Improvement Manager, Lean Coordinator, and Operations Analyst. These roles involve analyzing workflows, reducing waste, and implementing efficiency strategies often using tools like value stream mapping and Kaizen principles.

What job categories do people searching Lean Process Improvement jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lean Process Improvement jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Lean Process Improvement job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,422 per year, or $51.6 per hour.

Continuous Improvement Lean Practitioner

The Wonderful Company

Bakersfield, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


The Wonderful Company rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

285th of 440 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Company Description

The Wonderful Company is committed to providing high-quality, healthy, and iconic brands, including FIJI Water, POM Wonderful, Wonderful Pistachios, Wonderful Halos and helping improve the lives of the people who live and work in the places where we operate. Ranked No. 1 on the 2025 PEOPLE® Companies That Care list and one of Fortune® magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” in the U.S., The Wonderful Company is continually recognized for its dedication to the well-being of its workforce, their communities, and the planet.

The Continuous Improvement Lean Practitioner drives productivity and loss elimination by leading continuous improvement initiatives across The Wonderful Company. This role trains and coaches teams on Lean principles, PDCA methodology, advanced problem-solving, and process optimization while implementing Daily Direction Setting and autonomous maintenance to improve operational performance, equipment reliability, and team ownership. The position offers the opportunity to work across iconic brands including FIJI Water, POM Wonderful, and Wonderful Pistachios, while making a measurable impact through Lean transformation and operational excellence.

This position will be based at our Shafter, CA office. 

Job Description
  • Training and Coaching: Train, coach, and challenge process owners in the use of lean tools, approaches, and techniques to create sustainable management and measurement systems.
  • Lean Tools Facilitation: Facilitate team use of lean tools, including Kaizen, 5S, Standard Work, PDCA/Problem Solving Process, and identifying waste.
  • Project Management: Manage multiple projects to ensure on-time delivery and quality using both internal and external resources.
  • Process Improvement: Investigate and analyze production methods and processes to identify improvements that drive efficiency, reduce cost, and eliminate waste.
  • Best Practices: Actively seek out best practices to share and implement at the sites.
Qualifications
  • 2-4 years in an operations role (such as Continuous Improvement, Production, or Quality).
  • Bilingual in Spanish.
  • Certification or significant experience in Lean and/or Six Sigma a plus.
  • Demonstrated understanding of World Class Manufacturing Methodology.
  • Superior problem solving and analytical skills (both quantitative and qualitative).
  • Strong written and presentation skills.
  • Knowledgeable in change management and adult learning.
  • Ability to travel primarily within California, with occasional travel to Oregon, Texas, Europe, Mexico, and Fiji as needed.
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering, Math, Science or related field.

Pay Range: $80,000 - $90,000 and may include a discretionary bonus. Final compensation will be dependent upon skills & experience.


Additional Information
  • Thriving Wellness Community: Access to top-notch medical coverage comprehensive vision and dental plans, and a 401k with match eligibility to secure your financial future and including: 
    • 24/7 online physician consultations 
    • virtual mental health resources 
    • life coaching 
    • engaging employee community groups 
    • cash rewards for healthy habits and fitness reimbursements 
    • library of on-demand fitness videos 
  • Career Advancement Opportunities: Unlock your potential with clear paths for career progression and internal mobility across our diverse family of brands and business units. 
  • Focused Learning and Development: Grow as a leader with our dedicated Learning and Organizational Development department, offering extensive resources like People Manager and leadership training, webinars, and eLearning courses. 
  • Empowering Mentorship Program: Connect with colleagues through our company-wide mentorship program to share goals, overcome challenges, and drive your career forward. 
  • Continuous Improvement Training: Participate in training that empowers all employees to learn and implement concepts that drive significant, positive change in the workplace. 
  • Building a Healthy Society: To date, our co-Founders Lynda and Stewart Resnick, through their foundations and The Wonderful Company, have invested more than $2.5 billion in education, health and wellness, community development, and sustainability initiatives across California’s Central Valley, Fiji, and the world. In 2025, Wonderful ranked as #1 in PEOPLE’s “100 Companies That Care” list and was named one of Fortune magazine’s 100 Best Companies to Work For. To learn more about our corporate social responsibility efforts, visit csr.wonderful.com.
  • Giving Back to the Community: Make a difference with Wonderful Giving, allowing you to allocate company-provided funds to up to three charities of your choice, and join Wonderful Neighbor to contribute to group service projects within our local communities. 

The Wonderful Company is a privately held $6 billion global company headquartered in Los Angeles, with more than 10,000 employees worldwide. Founded by Lynda and Stewart Resnick, Wonderful produces some of the world’s most recognized healthy food and beverage brands, including FIJI Water, POM Wonderful, Wonderful Pistachios, Wonderful Halos, Wonderful Seedless Lemons, Teleflora, and JUSTIN, Lewis Cellars, and Landmark wines. 

The company also operates Neptune Pacific, a shipping and supply chain company serving the Pacific, and Wonderful Real Estate, which develops and manages industrial properties in California’s Central Valley. To date, the Resnicks, along with their foundations and The Wonderful Company, have committed more than $2.5 billion to philanthropy and community investment primarily where its employees live and work. Wonderful is regularly named one of Fortune’s “100 Best Companies to Work For” and ranked No. 1 on PEOPLE magazine’s Companies That Care list. 

To learn more about The Wonderful Company, its products, and its core values, please visit wonderful.com or follow The Wonderful Company on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. For more information on the company’s corporate social responsibility impact, visit csr.wonderful.com. 

The Wonderful Company is an Equality Opportunity Employer that provides opportunities for advancement. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce that embodies a deep culture of acceptance, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories.

#LI-JB1

EEO is the law - click here for more information


What The Wonderful Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom